Meaning
Specific categories of outstanding invoices satisfy established criteria for use as collateral in asset backed financing. Eligible accounts receivable consist of amounts owed for goods delivered and accepted where the payment is not yet overdue by more than ninety days. These balances determine the total amount a firm can draw down from its revolving facility.
Liquidity Potential
Calculations exclude debts from affiliates or invoices currently under dispute. Each eligible accounts receivable entry increases the borrowing base directly (providing immediate cash flow for manufacturing). This potential remains contingent on the financial health of the customers who owe the money.
Asset Filter
Credit managers apply strict screens to weed out low quality paper from the total pool. If an eligible accounts receivable balance suddenly fails a concentration limit check, the lender reduces the available credit available to the firm. This filter works as a real time brake on expansion during period of low collections.
Collateral Value
Banks value these assets at a percentage of their face amount to account for potential nonpayment risks. Maintaining a high ratio of eligible accounts receivable is required for maintaining compliance with loan covenants. Management focuses on shortening the cycle between shipping and invoicing to keep these values consistent.